Definition of fess
1 : a broad horizontal bar across the middle of a heraldic field
2 : the center point of an armorial escutcheon
Explore M-W
Origin and Etymology of fess
Middle English fesse, from Anglo-French faisse band, from Latin fascia — more at fascia
First Known Use: 15th century
Origin and Etymology of fess
short for confess
First Known Use: 1840
Learn More about fess
-
See words that rhyme with fess Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for fess Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about fess
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up fess? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!